How do we work through these various activities when students work at different paces and have different strengths and needs? An instructional routine/structure that builds independence and responsibility while differentiating for students’ needs that I’ve used in my classroom for many years is Study Stars. My goal is to build independence and a solid work ethic while allowing students to work at a pace that works for each individual. Here’s how it works:
Study Stars is basically a listing of assignments, activities, and possibilities for student work. Some items are required, some items are optional. Each day the items are placed in order based on due date, instructional need, student interest, and variation of learning experience. Some items in the list must be completed in a particular order; others can be completed in any order. The goal is to help students prioritize their work schedule for the time they have available, to support them in meeting due dates, to allow students to work at the pace that’s appropriate for them, and to allow voice and choice in learning. While students work independently or even in partners, I am able to confer with individuals or small groups.
In any school setting, each day’s schedule varies greatly. So on some days we have a long Study Stars time; on other days, we have little or no Study Stars time. But the structure is always there, predictable, adaptable, and flexible, providing the opportunity for each student to shine.